Skip to main content

News Briefs

  • 1/18/2025

    Grubhub Expands Delivery Services with Olo Dispatch

    handshake partnership

    Grubhub, a leading U.S. food ordering and delivery marketplace, and Olo, a leading restaurant technology provider, have expanded their partnership to integrate Grubhub with Olo Dispatch. With Dispatch, restaurants can outsource delivery for orders generated through their own website and apps leveraging a network of third-party delivery service providers, now including Grubhub. This integration builds on Grubhub and Olo's existing relationship where Grubhub orders are directly sent to restaurants' point-of-sale system via Olo Rails.

    Olo Dispatch seamlessly selects service providers, including in-house couriers, based on optimal price, timing, availability, and other criteria. Olo's automated matching technology enables restaurants to get orders out the door and into the hands of customers faster and in the most cost-efficient way. With Dispatch, brands can quickly deploy delivery at a national scale with integration into their POS and kitchen production systems. This allows brands to strengthen direct relationships with their customers while offering a convenient and branded delivery experience through their own channels.

    "As demand for digital ordering and delivery grows across third-party and owned channels, we're proud to expand how we support our merchant partners and create more earning opportunities for Grubhub's delivery partners," said Kyle Emmett, senior director of retail media and merchant solutions at Grubhub. "With our nationwide delivery network, we help merchants manage their delivery operations, reduce costs, and better meet customer demands."

    "At Olo, we always strive to do what's best for our customers, and adding a great partner like Grubhub to our Dispatch network is a perfect example," said Kacie Gonzalez, vice president of product partnerships at Olo. "Giving restaurant brands more delivery service provider options gives them more flexibility, reliability, and competitive pricing, while allowing them to grow their direct ordering channels and own their guest relationships."

    This integration with Olo Dispatch joins Grubhub's On-Demand Delivery and Supplemental Delivery services that help restaurants easily scale up their delivery operations when it's needed most.  

  • 1/17/2025

    Samsung’s 2025 Hotel TV Lineup Brings Award-Winning The Frame and Google Cast to Hospitality, Redefining Luxury and Innovation

    Samsung 2025 television with google cast

    Samsung Electronics, a global leader in display technology, today announced it will showcase its highly anticipated 2025 hotel TV lineup at Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) 2025 in Barcelona. The new lineup combines sophisticated designs, cutting-edge in-room entertainment features and a unified platform, reinforcing Samsung’s commitment to redefining the premium hotel experience.

    “Our 2025 hotel TV lineup is designed to elevate the guest experience with personalization at its core,” said Hoon Chung, Executive Vice President of Visual Display Business at Samsung Electronics. “Hotels can customize their room’s ambiance with The Frame’s Art Mode, offer seamless streaming with Apple Airplay and the newly added Google Cast, and enable convenient control of the room environment through SmartThings Pro, all tailored to individual guest preferences.”

    Redefining Hotel Aesthetics With The Frame

    Samsung’s 2025 lineup introduces the award-winning The Frame (model name HL03F)1 as a hotel TV, bringing stunning 4K QLED picture quality with vivid colors, deep contrasts and lifelike visuals to every room, all while maintaining a sleek and sophisticated design that transforms interiors. With its innovative Art Mode, The Frame allows hotel managers to customize guest rooms and surroundings by displaying a curated selection of modern or classic artwork — or even other tailored images such as hotel-branded visuals — when the TV is not in use.

    Combined with an Anti-Reflection Matte Display that limits light interference and a Slim-Fit Wall Mount that enables the TV to sit flush against the wall like a true art piece, The Frame elevates hotel aesthetics with a unique blend of luxury and personalization.

    As the official visual display sponsor of Art Basel, The Frame reflects Samsung’s dedication to combining cutting-edge technology with timeless design. Its introduction sets a new benchmark for hotels seeking to deliver a refined, personalized and visually captivating experience for their guests.

    Enhancing Guest Experiences With Google Cast for Seamless Streaming

    Samsung’s 2025 hotel TV lineup, along with the 2024 HBU8000, takes in-room entertainment to the next level by supporting Google Cast2 for secure, seamless, in-room streaming. Guests will be able to easily cast their favorite content directly from their Android and iOS devices to the TV without the need for additional dongles or login requirements. The connection process is quick and straightforward, utilizing QR codes for instant pairing.

    “We’re thrilled to bring Google Cast to Samsung TVs, extending the convenience of seamless content sharing to both hospitality and consumer models,” said Tiger Lan, Google’s Senior Director of engineering for multi-device experiences. “Whether guests are enjoying their favorite shows and playlists on hotel TVs or streaming effortlessly at home, this collaboration ensures users have reliable, personalized access to their content wherever they are.”

    The lineup also supports Apple AirPlay,3 allowing hotel guests to securely connect their iOS and iPadOS devices to the TVs in their rooms for an effortless streaming experience.

    Unlike traditional systems, both Apple Airplay and Google Cast can be used independently of third-party system integrator (SI) requirements, simplifying installation for hotels and reducing infrastructure demands. Furthermore, Samsung ensures robust privacy by ensuring that no personal information or device pairing data is stored, giving guests complete peace of mind during their stay.

    Streamlining Hotel Operations With a Connected Ecosystem

    Samsung’s 2025 hotel TV lineup introduces a fully connected ecosystem designed to enhance operations and elevate guest experiences. With Tizen 9.0, guests benefit from an intuitive and seamless interface that simplifies access to streaming apps, smart room controls and personalized services, creating a more enjoyable and connected stay.

    For hotel operators, LYNK Cloud offers a powerful cloud-based solution that combines customizable content delivery, remote device management and over-the-top (OTT) entertainment. Equipped with an e-commerce platform, it enables guests to perform service interactions such as ordering room service, booking hotel amenities and accessing a digital concierge. Simultaneously, hotel managers gain valuable insights to personalize guest content and deploy targeted promotions across rooms or properties globally, driving operational efficiency and guest satisfaction.

    SmartThings Pro further strengthens IoT connectivity by enabling secure and centralized control of Samsung Hospitality TVs, Smart Signage, air conditioning systems and more. With a scalable dashboard and customizable application programming interfaces (APIs), SmartThings Pro allows hotel IT teams to monitor performance, manage devices across multiple units and seamlessly integrate with existing systems.

     

     

    1 The functionality of The Frame in the hotel TV lineup may vary from the consumer version.
    2 Google Cast is a trademark of Google LLC. Google Cast supports Android 6 and above, and iOS 14 and above. Availability may vary by device, software version and region.
    3 AirPlay is compatible with iOS 11, iPadOS 13, macOS Mojave 10.14 and later versions. Availability may vary by device, software version and region.

  • 1/14/2025

    NRF 2025 NEWS: HARMAN Unveils HARMAN ConnectIQ

    Harman Logo

    HARMAN, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co., announced that its HARMAN Digital Transformation Solutions business unit will launch HARMAN ConnectIQ, an AI-powered retail frontline workforce productivity solution at NRF Big Show 2025.

    The latest U.S. Department of Labor BLS report reveals a staggering 60% average turnover rate for retail employees*. This is coupled with escalating costs of hiring, training and retention. In response, nearly 40% of retail tech executives plan to boost investments in frontline worker experience technology in 2025. #

    HARMAN ConnectIQ tackles these challenges by enhancing worker collaboration, delivering personalized training, streamlining onboarding and simplifying task management for store managers and associates. Powered by AI, it integrates multiple retail systems through prebuilt connectors, offering a unified digital experience for frontline workers. This improves productivity by up to 30%, boosting in-store customer experience.

    [A spokesperson for the brand confirmed that HARMAN ConnectIQ will also be available to hotels and restaurants.]

    HARMAN ConnectIQ uses market-leading technologies such as Microsoft Teams for collaboration, Microsoft Copilot for enhanced productivity and Samsung Knox for secure communication across channels

    "HARMAN ConnectIQ is an AI-driven solution transforming retail operations by boosting frontline worker productivity and addressing labor shortages," said Nicholas Parrotta, President - Digital Transformation Solutions and Chief Digital & Information Officer at HARMAN. "By unifying various systems into a single digital experience and incorporating AI, we enhance workforce efficiency and elevate customer experiences. We're excited to showcase how this cutting-edge technology empowers retailers to stay competitive and drive innovation at NRF Big Show 2025."

    HARMAN ConnectIQ will be showcased in the Samsung booth #5303 at the NRF Big Show. For more information on HARMAN Digital Transformation Solutions and HARMAN ConnectIQ, visit Retail Digital Transformation Solutions and Contactless Shopping | HARMAN.

  • 1/16/2025

    Invig Consulting to Bring PizzaForno’s 24/7 Automatic Pizza Vending Machines to West Coast Convenience Stores

    pizzaforno automated pizza vending machine

    Invig Consulting, a company that reimagines the way brands, convenience stores, and restaurants connect and do business, is thrilled to announce its new partnership with PizzaForno, North America's pioneering automated pizzeria renowned for baking high-quality pizza round the clock. Together, this partnership aims to bring PizzaForno’s 24/7 automatic pizza vending machines to all convenience stores across the West Coast of the United States. With over 20 years in business and an established presence across Canada, Invig Consulting and PizzaForno will work together to make pizza vending machines the new standard for convenience stores.

    “We couldn’t be more excited to collaborate with PizzaForno,” said Bassem Nowyhed, CEO of Invig Consulting. “We started Invig Consulting to bring innovation to the industry and maximize the ability for store owners to adopt the immersive technologies of the future. PizzaForno allows store owners to introduce a new product to their customers efficiently and reliably without having to pay for the extra training, labor, and materials that would come with running a pizza-making operation within their store. These vending machines are a no-brainer for stores to have an edge over their competitors and introduce a new line of revenue. We’re super excited to bring these incredible machines to store owners across California and the entire west coast.”

    Earlier this year, PizzaForno made its presence known in the U.S. by successfully launching in Utah, Delaware, New York, Florida, and Maryland, establishing 39 new units across the nation. As of today, PizzaForno has introduced its vending machines at three locations across California. With this new partnership, PizzaForno seeks to continue to expand and spread its machines across the state, with the ultimate goal of establishing a PizzaForno inside every convenience store.

    “Our 24/7 automatic machines embody everything customers seek in a convenience store appliance,” said Travis Musser, Master Licensee for PizzaForno Southern California and Washington State. “With how connected Invig Consulting is to the convenience store industry, we’re confident that our vending machines will become available to more stores and eventually become an essential component for the convenience store experience.”

  • 1/16/2025

    PAR Technology Launches New Gift Card Solution

    PAR logo teaser

    Gift cards have been a trusted way to drive customer loyalty, but they often fall short of their full potential. PAR Technology is changing that with the launch of its gift card solution, PAR Gift™, an offering designed to help restaurants and retailers transform gifting into a seamless, personalized experience while unlocking new opportunities for growth.

    With this launch, PAR enables businesses to go beyond the basics, creating stronger customer connections and driving measurable results using a fresh approach to gifting by combining ease of use, advanced features, and the flexibility modern businesses need by offering:

    • Personalized Engagement: Delivering gift cards is simple and impactful, whether it’s through SMS, email, social media, or physical cards. PAR’s platform makes every interaction feel tailored to the customer.
    • Seamless Integration: The platform is built to integrate effortlessly with existing systems, allowing businesses of any size to quickly launch and scale gift card programs.
    • Enhanced Features: With options like cashback rewards, auto-reload capabilities, and omnichannel delivery, PAR ensures that gift cards become a central part of a broader customer engagement strategy.

    As digital gift cards continue to gain popularity—expected to grow at a 15.8% compound annual growth rate through 2030—PAR’s solution positions businesses to capitalize on this growing demand.

    Why It Matters

    Research highlights the significant impact gift cards can have: customers spend, on average, 61% more than the value of their card. However, many businesses lack the tools to fully realize this potential. PAR’s stored value solution solves this challenge with a streamlined, scalable platform that is both innovative and practical.

    “Our customers are at the center of everything we do,” said Sal Nazir, General Manager of PAR Pay at PAR Technology. “With the launch of PAR Gift, we’re providing businesses with a resource to deepen customer relationships while creating new opportunities for revenue growth. It’s about delivering value—for the customer and the brand alike.”

    With PAR Gift, stored value becomes a bridge between businesses and their customers, offering value to both. Whether it’s a thoughtful present for a loved one or an incentive to return, the impact is undeniable: more loyalty, more revenue, and more opportunities.

  • 1/16/2025

    Lodging Interactive Launches GuestCONNECT

    Lodging Interactive Launches GuestConnect

    Lodging Interactive, a digital marketing, social media, and guest review engagement agency exclusively serving the hospitality industry, announced the launch of GuestCONNECT, a flexible, subscription-based suite of services that includes a hotel website, social media marketing, and white-glove guest review response services designed exclusively for hotels and resorts. This all-in-one solution allows properties to build an impactful online presence with minimal upfront investment while ensuring consistent guest engagement across the travel booking journey.

    “GuestCONNECT brings together a modern website experience, an engaging social media presence, and hotel reputation management through guest review responses to ensure hotels build lasting relationships with guests and increase direct bookings,” said DJ Vallauri, Lodging Interactive’s Founder and CEO. “I’m pleased to say that Lodging Interactive is the only hospitality digital marketing agency that can offer such comprehensive services on a ‘pay-as-you-go’ subscription basis.”

    Fully Managed, Flexible Solutions, Pay-As-You-Go

    GuestCONNECT provides hotels and resorts with professionally managed services designed to amplify online visibility and boost direct bookings. Core services include:

    Website Design, Development, Ongoing Support and Marketing :

    GuestCONNECT offers elegantly designed websites with cutting-edge technologies. Each is fully hosted and managed, including Search Engine Optimization (SEO), which highlights the hotel’s unique brand. With all-inclusive monthly pricing, GuestCONNECT delivers affordability and peace of mind.

    Engaging Social Media Marketing: 

    GuestCONNECT ensures properties maintain an active and engaging online presence by posting to Facebook and Instagram accounts weekly. This provides property ‘top-of-mind’ for both current and potential guests.

    Guest Review Response Services:

    GuestCONNECT provides professional Online Reputation Management (ORM) services 7 days a week, ensuring brand-compliant and timely responses to online reviews. With monitoring of over 140 review sites, GuestCONNECT offers hotels consistent and brand-aligned replies and in-depth sentiment analysis reporting to reveal valuable guest experience insights.

    KPI data points include detailed online reporting, one-on-one account management, and strategy calls for all core services.

    “With our ‘pay-as-you-go’ business model, GuestCONNECT is built for scalability and flexibility, allowing hotels to grow their digital presence affordably, consistently and in a professional manner,” added Mr. Vallauri.

    GuestCONNECT has affordable pricing options for properties of all sizes and offers flexible agreement terms.

  • Show MoreShow More
X
This ad will auto-close in 10 seconds